Elk Chases Off Tourists To Protect Calves

CBS Denver / YouTube

Along Upper Bear Creek Road in Evergreen, Colorado a mother elk was spotted trying to protect her calves by chasing people away in the area.

CBS Denver / YouTube

Wildlife officials shared video footage of the elk chasing people who were jogging on a path near the road, as well as, people who were walking on the road.

โ€œCow elk will be exhibiting normal protective behavior of their young. You need to give wildlife extra space this time of year and be sure to keep dogs on leashes,โ€ CPW said, according to KDVR.

Wildlife officials say that with the warmer temperatures, Evergreen Lake has become a high-traffic place for both humans and wildlife.

YouTube video

They also added that mother elk usually give birth during the first two weeks of June after a 245-gestation period. So right now is prime time for females to be aggressive in attempts to protect their young.

On this particular day, the mother elk was semi-aggressive with chasing people but never actually physically touching them. CPW released the video to warn the public to stay safe while in elk territory.

โ€œIf you see wildlife on a well-traveled path or trail, sometimes you need to avoid them, especially this time of year when deer, elk and elk will be protective of their newborns,โ€ CPW said.

More Footage Below Of The Elk